They may own the land they want, but it appears the two Native American Indian Tribes looking to build a casino in Jackson Township have a long road ahead of them, starting with what could be an extensive research effort.
One expert claims it would be unusual for the Itana and Munsee Delaware nations "to seek help from anthropologists and genealogists in compiling this
Kathryn Rand is dean of the University of North Dakota School of Law and has written a number of books and articles on the subject of Indian gaming. She said once the application is complete, the tribes would need to be formally recognized under the U.S. Indian Gaming Regulatory Act -- something she called a "fundamental hurdle."
"Only tribes that have the status of federal recognition are allowed to conduct gaming under IGRA," Rand said.
The next step would be to have the property taken into trust by the Department of the Interior. Rand said if the tribes are able to successfully get through the review process and meet all the needed requirements, chances are good the project can be developed.
Rand warned it will be both onerous and expensive.
"This is a process that for some groups has taken literally decades," she said.
Former Valley Congressman Jim Traficant, who says he's acting as an agent for the Indian tribes, is expected to reveal more information about the local project when he meets with officials and the public at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Jackson Township Hall Tuesday.
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